A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke (18:9-14) Jesus told a story to some people who thought they were better than others and who looked down on everyone else: “Two men went into the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood over by himself and prayed, ‘God, I thank you that I am not greedy, dishonest, and unfaithful in marriage like other people. And I am really glad that I am not like that tax collector over there. I go without eating for two days a week, and I give you one tenth of all I earn.’ The tax collector stood off at a distance and did not think he was good enough even to look up toward heaven. He was so sorry for what he had done that he pounded his chest and prayed, ‘God, have pity on me! I am such a sinner.’ ” Then Jesus said, "When the two men went home, it was the tax collector and not the Pharisee who was pleasing to God. If you put yourself above others, you will be put down. But if you humble yourself, you will be honoured.” The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. What an important message Jesus has for us in this Scripture passage. We learn that God is more pleased with us when we admit our weaknesses and ask for forgiveness, rather than bragging about what we have done well. Watch this video, called The Tax Collector and the Pharisee, for an excellent exploration of this parable. WE RESPOND WE GATHER WE GO FORTH Friday Week 29 Ordinary Time WE LISTEN Let us pray that God will guide our steps. (pause) God of hope and justice, may we respond to the needs of the poor and the broken and share in the reward of your kingdom. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. May God protect and heal us. Amen. May God bless us in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. 24 October 2025 193
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